Pests Basel-Stadt adopts regulations to combat the Japanese beetle
After the canton of Baselland, Basel-Stadt also issues a general decree to combat the Japanese beetle. Throughout the canton, it is forbidden to transport plants to uninfested areas until the end of September, as the Department of Construction and Transport (BVD) announced on Thursday.
11.07.2024, 16:28
SDA
Exceptions are possible if the material is insect-proofed or covered. The transportation and trade of plants with roots in the soil or growing medium is only permitted under certain conditions, as the BVD writes.
Following the discovery of Japanese beetles in Münchenstein last week, the cantons have defined an infestation focus and a buffer zone. Almost the entire canton of Basel-Stadt belongs to the buffer zone, which means that the above-mentioned regulations apply. The area near Dreispitz and St. Jakob is part of the infestation area, which extends over a radius of one kilometer from the site of the former Grün 80.
Lawn watering ban in the area around the Joggeli
Even stricter rules apply there. Until the end of September, it is forbidden to transport any green material such as compost and soil from this zone to the buffer zone or non-infested areas.
It is also forbidden to water lawns and grass-covered green areas in the infestation focus zone. This is intended to make the soil unattractive for the Japanese beetle to lay its eggs. However, watering plants in gardens and on balconies is still permitted as long as there is no grass growing in the pots and beds, according to the statement.
The BVD is also calling on the public to report findings of Japanese beetles. The general ruling will be published in the cantonal gazette on Saturday.
